Click to go to Tips for Travelers: May to October
Many visitors find that fall and winter are the most beautiful seasons in Yosemite. The crowds leave and the pace of the Park slows. Here are some ideas for your visit during this more tranquil season.
1. Plan for winter weather: Between November and April, severe weather is probable. Conditions can change in a matter of minutes, so it is essential to be prepared:
- Stay dry: Always carry some sort of foul-weather clothing even when the sky is clear.
- Always carry chains, even with 4 wheel drive. Most winter tow calls involve 4WD vehicles.
- Keep emergency supplies (flares, water, blankets, jumper cables) in your vehicle.
- Make sure your car's battery and anti-freeze is adequate (-10º F is possible).
- Call ahead for road conditions and weather information: 209.372.0200.
2. Fall in Yosemite: Until snow closes the high elevation roads, some of the best hiking, sightseeing and fall colors can be experienced along the Tioga and Glacier Point corridors. In the Valley, fall colors show from late September through November.
3. Try a mid-week special: Many Yosemite hotels and the Badger Pass Ski Area offer substantial savings on mid-week travel. Call for more information: 209.252.4848.
4. Bundle up: Late fall through winter, mid-day temperatures average 40-50 degrees in Yosemite Valley but can vary widely. Winter highs may only reach the upper 20s, even in the Valley. Overnight lows are regularly below freezing and occasionally fall below zero. Dress in layers and carry sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and a hat.
5. Learn about Yosemite: Try the ranger and naturalist-led snowshoe hikes at Badger Pass and the Mariposa Grove. These walks are only moderately strenuous and provide a unique perspective on winter life in Yosemite. Check the current Yosemite Guide for details.
6. Enjoy the indoors: Even if the weather keeps you in, recreation and education opportunities abound. Check out the Valley Visitor Center, Museum, Theater showing Spirit of Yosemite and The Ahwahnee.
7. Be nature smart: Bears are still active in the winter. Many wild animals, including seemingly tame squirrels and deer, can be dangerous to people, and feeding wild animals can harm them. Don't leave food in your car or anywhere animals can get to it.
8. Winter walks: A whole other Yosemite opens up when you get away from the hotels and parking lots. Some Favorite Winter Valley Walks From the Valley Visitor Center:
- To Columbia Point (on the trail to the top of Yosemite Falls), 6 miles round-trip, strenuous. Check weather conditions.
- To Yosemite Falls, 2 miles round-trip, moderate.
- To Bridalveil Fall, 7 miles round-trip, flat.
9. See Yosemite at night: Winter nights can be truly astonishing. The clarity of the night sky and the light of the moon on meadows and granite walls make night hikes and stargazing spectacular if you're prepared. Dress warmly, stay on trails and go with a companion.
10. Take a tour: This is one of the best ways to get acquainted with Yosemite. For tour information call 209.372.1240